Social care, eligibility and assessments

Applying for social care

Eligibility criteria form part of our needs assessment process which helps us to determine if someone is entitled to care or support services provided by or on behalf of the council.

These national eligibility criteria (PDF) [35KB] are used by all councils and are set out in the Care Act. If you don't meet the criteria, we will still give you information and advice, and help you to find services in the community, some of which may be free, and can help to keep you as independent and active as possible.

Before you can apply for social care, you will need a social care assessment. This is to determine if you have eligible needs.

To start a social care self-assessment, select the button below and complete our online form.

Begin your social care self-assessment

Page last updated: 16 Mar 2023